California Grill is our absolute favorite restaurant, not only in Disney World but anywhere! Reservations are absolutely necessary, whether you are going for brunch or dinner. Without a reservation you could easily be looking at a two hour wait for a table. We have only gone for dinner, so I can’t give suggestions about brunch, but I am sure it is just as magical at all times of the day! The prices are steep, for the two of us alone it is easily $100 after drinks, but highly worth the experience. We go when we have a special occasion, which the staff especially makes worth it as they insist on a glass of champagne or celebratory cupcake for your dining experience. If you are trying to surprise a loved one, call ahead and they can use their pixie dust and decorate the table with a touch of magic before you arrive.

Not only delicious food and exceptional service, but breathtaking views and a front row balcony view to the fireworks if you know when to go. We highly recommend making your reservation during the fireworks performance of the night you are attending. For example, if fireworks are at 8pm, make your reservation for around 7:30 so that you can get up in time to watch. Not to worry if you can’t get the “perfect” time. We have had a reservation 30mins later than fireworks began, explained our situation, and we were able to come up early to view the fireworks (with the promise of stopping by the bar for a drink on our way, but they didn’t have to twist our arms for that :) They will also let you back in later for a fireworks viewing if you dine before hand. While viewing the fireworks on the balcony, they have surround sound speakers that play the music of the performance so that you get the entire show experience without the crowds of people, all while your dinner is cooking inside!

Getting there:

The restaurant is located at The Contemporary Resort, right across the street from Magic Kingdom. You can get there from a shuttle or boat to Magic Kingdom and walk from the park, or take the monorail in from the parks to the hotel. We have also taken an uber or lyft Minnie Van ($25 fee) from the hotel right up to the front when we’ve been crunched for time which is a great option if you don’t want to rely on Disney Transportation.

Appetizers:

As you might be able to tell by know through our dining reviews, I am all about free bread as an appetizer, so I was excited to see that went along with our meal as well. I know, not very high standards for dining. Jonathan usually gets the bone marrow as an appetizer. We have always wanted to try their artisanal pizzas-especially the roasted pear one! But considering how often we get pizza regularly, it doesn't feel right for us to get it here. Let us know how you like it if you try it!

Dinner:  

For the main course, the California Combination Roll or the Cowboy Rib-Eye Steak is what we go for, but honestly we would recommend most of what they serve!

Dessert:  

If you have any room left for dessert, the creme brulee is wonderfully presented and tastes amazing. Last time we were there, we were lucky enough to get a celebratory cupcake added for our anniversary.

Watch the fireworks, dine on delicious food, and enjoy the magic!

Love,

The Bells